Bossy Kitchen

In many ways urban café Bossy Kitchen, which originally started as a food stall at Al Riwaq’s Market 338, reflects the ‘cultural revolution’ that’s been going on in Bahrain for a number of years now.

It’s a nod to the burgeoning scene of modern, health conscious, creative and eco-friendly types.

As you enter the little eatery, which is located in Riffa’s Reem Centre, you’d be forgiven for thinking there’s not much going on. When we arrive, just after 6pm on a weekday, they’ve just opened and so the deli fridge is being stocked and staff are busy with final touches in the kitchen.

But then out comes friendly co-founder Aysha Al Araifi, who runs this place with her entrepreneurial husband Mohammed Al Khalifa, donning her crisp white chef’s apron, and, sensing our confusion, quickly leads us upstairs to the quirky seating area. This is what we came for.

Various tables and chairs are eclectically and strategically placed across the floor – I spot beautiful, brightly coloured Khaleej-designed chairs, and tables made of recycled Coca Cola bottles. Each spot has an empty tin of powdered milk, nurturing a blooming plant. It’s such a quirky, creative environment and we immediately love it.

Not as much as we love the menu though. We’re talking healthy indulgence with a side of vegan, gluten-free, paleo – you name your dining quirk, they cater to it with wholesome and flavourful dishes.

Today we opt for the spicy cauliflower salad which is topped with a creamy tahini sauce and fresh pomegranate – the flavours are wonderfully combined to hit every taste note – alongside the droolworthy goat’s cheese quesadillas that are stuffed with caramelised onions.

Meanwhile, we tuck into their popular ‘V Dips’ – a trio of ‘mezze’ including a green hummus, pumpkin puree and spiced aubergine dip.

What really blows us away, however, is the beef burger parcel – a meat patty that’s encased in a flaky filo pastry and smothered in a rich homemade tomato salsa. At first, we’re puzzled by the hint of cinnamon we detect but, with each and every mouthful, fall more in love.

Every step of the way, Aysha pops out to ask how we’re enjoying the meal and whether we have any feedback. At the same time, the waiters are friendly and clearly know their product.

Bossy Kitchen has ventured into new pastures in Bahrain, catering to the health conscious foodie, and we think it’s a brave and commendable move. As for our feedback? Besides wanting more daytime opening hours, all we can say is keep it up!